PH downplays foreign paper’s warning

Manila, Philippines – Foreign Affairs Secretary Albert F. del Rosario dismissed as nothing but a “grossly irresponsible sabre rattling statement” yesterday the recent warning issued by an influential Chinese newspaper for rival West Philippine Sea (South China Sea) claimants to “prepare for the sounds of cannons” if they do not want to change their ways with China.

“Sounds like a grossly irresponsible sabre-rattling statement in contrast with the Philippine position which seeks a United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS) rules-based solution to the West Philippine Sea issue,” Del Rosario said in a statement.

The Global Times newspaper, reportedly run by the ruling Communist Party in China, said in a strongly worded editorial published recently that military action may be needed in case the “situation turns ugly” in the disputed West Philippine Sea. (Roy C. Mabasa)